4 French vineyards to visit in 2018

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Considering a visit to France this summer? If you enjoy a glass of wine, the regions of the Loire Valley could be the perfect place to base yourself. Under five hours drive from Cherbourg, it is perfect if you are taking the ferry to France. While you are there, it is possible to visit a genuine French vineyard, producing some of the beat quality wine in the country.

French Vineyards, The Loire Valley

There have been vineyards in this part of France since Roman times. In the centuries since, the Loire Valley became a region creating some of the best quality wine in France. The region was certified by Appellation d’Origin Contrôlée as a quality wine producer, when it was founded in 1935. Today there are many wineries in the area that are open to the public for tours, we have found some of the best.

1. Chateau Gaudrelle

This 17th century manor house has been owned by the Monmousseau family since the early 1930’s. A tour of this winery includes an overview of the winemaking process, including their sparkling varieties, for those of who love a glass of bubbly, and a visit to their wine cellar dug into a limestone cliff. Visitors love how knowledgeable and passionate the guides are about the wine, as well as having the opportunity to taste a variety of quality red and white wines. Tours must be booked in advance and are available in English.

2. Chateau du Petit Thouars

As a descendent of those who bought the Chateau in 1636 Yves du Petit Thouars has a long family history with the Loire Valley. However, the winemaking started by their ancestors was only revived by Yves and his wife Marguerite in more recent years. This French vineyard specialise in Cabernet Franc variety of grape, famous in the region for producing wine with intense red fruit aromas. Visitors to this Chateau love the warm welcome, wonderful wines and delicious local food offered to visitors to this winery. Tours need to be booked in advance on their website or by getting in touch via email.

3. Domaine Frederic Bourillon Dorleans

Visit this French winery for something different, a tour that requires all five of your senses as owner Frederic guides you through the cave callers where art has been combined with culture to create a feast for the senses combining light, music and wine.

4. La Chevallerie

As producers of a light red and rosé wines, this is the winery for you if you prefer that to heavier varieties of wine, especially during the warm summer months when you may be visiting. Visitors say the owners are very hospitable and the wine is very well priced.

As you can see there are lots of opportunities to visit French vineyards during your holiday. What are you waiting for? Book your ferry to France with Stena Line. Book today and only pay a deposit of €100. We look forward to welcoming you onboard.

*always drink responsibly and arrange transport or a taxi to the vineyard if you plan on wine tasting.